Ernie had originally planned to hold the event at his home in Laurel Close, but, with the weather looking bleak, he decided to switch venues to Mepal’s village hall and it proved a runaway success.

Charity founder, Robert Barns, who recently cleared the £100,000 barrier, said: “Ernie is a great supporter of Lisa’s Fund and has organised other events in the past and raised many hundreds of pounds doing so, including a birthday party for himself.

“I knew he would not let the weather get in the way, and along with a army of volunteers managed to raise £888.88.”

As well as a barbecue, tea and cakes, the event also saw an assortment of stalls selling books, bottles, cakes a bric-a-brac.

The entertainment was provided by organ player Launa Turner and a talented group of children from Witchford.